Aftercare

Aftercare after hair transplantation | Akacia

Published: July 16, 2024Reading time: 3 minFiro Esmer
Dr Mohammed Abas

Medically reviewed by Dr Mohammed Abas

Medically responsible physician

Hair transplant aftercare - complete guide

Aftercare is absolutely crucial to the outcome of your hair transplant. Proper care in the first weeks and months ensures that the transplanted hair follicles have the best possible conditions to grow and thrive.

You can also read more about frequently asked questions about hair transplantation, hair transplantation, and results from other patients.

The First 10 Days - The Most Important

The first 10 days after surgery are critical to the outcome. During this period it is important to follow all instructions carefully.

Sleep position

  • Sleep on your back - This is absolutely necessary to avoid pressure on the recipient area
  • Use an airplane pillow - A special pillow that keeps the head in the right position
  • Avoid turning your head - This can damage the new hair follicles

Protection of the area

  • Avoid touching the transplanted area
  • Follow our instructions for washing and care
  • Use any ointments or products as prescribed

Shock phase - When the hair falls out

After a few weeks, it is quite normal for the transplanted hair to fall out. This is called the 'shock phase' and is part of the natural process.

Why does this happen?

When hair follicles are transplanted, they enter a resting (telogen) phase due to the stress of the procedure. This is completely normal and expected.

When does it start to grow back?

After the shock phase, the hair follicles start growing again. The new hair growth will be permanent as the follicles are taken from areas not affected by hair loss.

The Three Phases of Hair Growth

To understand the process, it is helpful to know the natural cycle of hair growth:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase)

  • Hair is actively growing
  • Lasts for several years for hair on the head
  • This is the phase we want the transplanted hair follicles to reach

2. Catagen (Transition phase)

  • Short transitional phase
  • Hair follicles prepare for resting phase

3. Telogen (Resting phase)

  • The hair rests and then falls off
  • This is what happens during the shock phase

Optimize the Healing

To give the transplanted hair follicles the best possible conditions:

Diet and Nutrition

  • Protein-rich diet - Hair is largely composed of protein (keratin)
  • Vitamins - especially biotin, zinc and iron
  • Hydration - Drink enough water

Complementary Treatments

We often recommend complementary treatments to optimize results:

  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) - Stimulates hair growth and healing
  • OxyHelp Oxygen - Increases oxygen supply to the hair roots

Long-term care

After the first few months:

  • Continue with a healthy lifestyle
  • Follow any ongoing treatment recommendations
  • Come for follow-up visits as scheduled

Frequently asked questions

When will you see the results?

  • After 3-4 months - First signs of new hair growth
  • After 6-9 months - More noticeable hair growth
  • After 12 months - The final result is visible

Can I exercise?

Light exercise can be resumed after a few weeks, but avoid intense exercise for the first few weeks to avoid increased blood pressure.

When can I cut my hair?

After about 2-3 weeks you can usually cut your hair, but please follow our specific instructions.

Our support

At Akacia Medical, we follow up all our patients closely. We are always available for questions and support throughout the aftercare process.

Conclusion

Aftercare is as important as the surgery itself. By following our instructions and taking care of yourself, you give the transplanted follicles the best possible conditions to grow and thrive.

If you have any questions about aftercare or are considering a hair transplant, contact us for a free consultation.

Tags

hair transplantaftercarehealingPRPhair growth

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Firo Esmer

Firo Esmer

Founder and Operations Manager at Akacia Medical

FounderOperations Manager

Firo Esmer is the founder of Akacia Medical and writes about hair transplantation, hair loss and treatment planning based on the clinic's experience and patient journey.

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